A child custody dispute can be one of the most stressful experiences for any parent. It’s crucial to understand the factors considered by a Judge under as a basis for their custody decisions. While the overriding principle in custody matters is the child’s best interests, knowing the legal framework is crucial. Attorney Lisa Stern has handled divorce and child custody…
Even though the law is gender-neutral when it comes to child custody determinations, fathers often find themselves facing an uphill battle when trying to secure meaningful time with their children. As a result, fathers tend to be put in a position where they have to be proactive in securing and protecting their father’s rights. But how do you go about…
Parents in Michigan want what is best for their children. However, if those parents have gone through a divorce—or if they have never been married at all—either way, they may need to develop child custody and child support arrangements that are designed to be implemented in the “best interests” of the children. A “parenting plan” is a big part of…
Michigan couples who are getting divorced will hear many terms they might be relatively familiar with as the case moves forward. When child custody is being addressed or there is an outright dispute, the child’s “best interests” will come to the forefront. While the term may sound self-explanatory, there are specific details that the sides should understand from the start.…
When parents separate, they will likely go from living in the same house together with their children to living in different homes. Two separate homes can make it more challenging for the child to spend quality time with both parents. This is especially true if the child’s parents live hundreds of miles apart. Possible scheduling options for long distance parents…
Generally speaking, family courts in the greater Detroit area are going to prefer that both parents spend as much time as possible with their children and are involved in their children’s lives. Also, the preference is for the two parents to cooperate on important decisions for their children. These are normally good goals in a custody proceeding, but when one…
Are you nervous about how your child custody dispute is going to play out? If so, now is the time to ensure that you’re as fully prepared as possible regardless of whether you’re going to be negotiating a resolution or litigating in hopes of achieving the outcome that you think is best for your child. One part of that preparation…
Co-parenting is not always easy, especially in the immediate days to weeks following your divorce. Many of the reasons you had for divorce, such as resentment, anger and sadness can bleed over into your relationship with your ex long after the ink has dried on your divorce decree. This can make co-parenting seem difficult, but it is not impossible as…
In Michigan child custody cases, many factors will be discussed when determining decision-making rights, living arrangements, and parenting time. First and foremost, the courts will strive to serve the child’s best interests. In general, the parents will focus on the child as well. However, given the chance that the marriage ended badly and the sides are in dispute over myriad…
During and after a divorce, child custody and parenting plans can become complicated and expensive, and have some negative effects on their kids. It is this fear of the hardships of divorce that can often keep unhappy couples together long past when they should have separated. But, there are creative solutions to make the transition much easier for everyone in…